The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, has commended Yakubu Gowon University, Abuja, for establishing the continent’s first Department of Gemmology and Gemstones—a groundbreaking initiative aimed at boosting Nigeria’s mining capacity through education and innovation.
Speaking during a courtesy visit by a delegation from the university led by Professor Adesoji Adesugba, Dr. Alake described the department as a “critical knowledge hub” for advancing skills across the gemstone and jewellery-making value chain.
“This is a significant leap for Nigeria and the entire continent. By building a strong talent pipeline, we are laying a solid foundation for long-term growth and technological advancement in the mining sector,” the Minister stated.
According to his Special Assistant on Media, Segun Tomori, the Minister hailed the launch of a formal academic curriculum in gemmology as a landmark development. He said it aligns perfectly with his administration’s strategic goal of fostering local expertise and driving innovation within the solid minerals industry.
Professor Adesugba, in his remarks, praised the Minister’s sweeping reforms in the mining sector, noting that they have repositioned it for sustainable economic contribution. He also sought the Minister’s support in facilitating formal affiliation between Yakubu Gowon University and the Gemological Institute of Nigeria.
“Our department is fully committed to supporting the Ministry’s objectives, particularly in strengthening the mining sector’s contribution to Nigeria’s GDP,” Adesugba affirmed.
Dr. Alake pledged full backing for the proposed affiliation and called on other academic institutions to take a cue from Yakubu Gowon University by introducing mining-focused programmes into their curricula.
“To build local capacity, we must prioritize training and education at home. This department will play a vital role in training gemmologists and jewellery professionals. As we move towards establishing dedicated mining universities, your experience and input will be invaluable,” the Minister noted.
The visiting delegation also included Professor Aminu Dankishiya, Dean of Science; Dr. Tinuke Temitope, Registrar of the Gemological Institute of Nigeria; and Dr. Aminu Isyaku, Head of the Department of Geology and Mining, among others.
